News|US-Venezuela TensionsRodriguez says ‘no foreign agent’ running Venezuela, US role still unclearVenezuela’s prosecutor general decries Maduro’s arrest as ‘terrorism’, as the US offers little clarity on next steps, following its military operation.
Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez, stated that no foreign entity controls Venezuela following the abduction of Nicolas Maduro by United States military forces.
Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez, stated that no foreign entity controls Venezuela following the abduction of Nicolas Maduro by United States military forces.
Rodriguez, who previously served as vice president under Maduro, addressed the nation on Tuesday, following Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores pleading not guilty to drug-trafficking conspiracy charges in a New York court.
Venezuela's prosecutor general has called for the immediate release of Maduro and his wife, condemning the military operation as an illegal act of armed aggression lacking a declaration of war or a UN Security Council resolution.
Following the military operation, which resulted in numerous casualties, Venezuela released a list of 24 soldiers killed during the assault. Cuba reported 32 military casualties. Rodriguez declared a seven-day mourning period for the fallen soldiers.
The US government, led by President Donald Trump, has not clarified its future plans for Venezuela. Trump mentioned the US would "run" Venezuela, but US Secretary of State Marco Rubio later stated that US officials would guide the country's direction through sanctions and an embargo targeting Venezuela's oil industry.
US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and other officials briefed Congress on the operation, but details regarding the justification and future plans for Venezuela were sparse. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer indicated that the briefing raised more questions than it answered.
Following the military operation, which resulted in numerous casualties, Venezuela released a list of 24 soldiers killed during the assault.
In Caracas, a state-organized demonstration took place to show support for the government. Despite displays of support, the situation in the capital remains tense, with many residents staying indoors due to heightened security measures.
Reports indicate that government-aligned paramilitaries are collaborating with military forces to maintain control and suppress potential dissent, leading to increased public apprehension.
Regional concerns are escalating as the Trump administration issues threats against Colombia and Greenland. Following the operation in Venezuela, Trump suggested possible military action against Colombia, citing its role in the drug trade.
Colombia's Foreign Affairs Minister announced plans to lodge a formal complaint with the US embassy regarding these threats, emphasizing Colombia's efforts in combating drug trafficking.
Greenland and Denmark have also sought discussions with US officials regarding statements made by the Trump administration. The US has reiterated its interest in Greenland, suggesting military options remain on the table.
European nations and Canada have expressed support for Greenland, stating that any military action against the territory, a NATO member, would be considered an attack on the alliance.
A joint statement from several European countries emphasized that Greenland's sovereignty lies with its people and should only be determined by Denmark and Greenland.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.